Emmi, a Swiss dairy group, has further expanded its presence in the food and beverage industry by acquiring a majority stake in Verde Campo, a Brazil-based company, from The Coca-Cola Co. The acquisition involved Emmi’s Brazil-based subsidiary, Laticínios Porto Alegre, acquiring 70% of Verde Campo. This partnership strengthens Emmi’s position in the strategic Brazilian market, known for its innovative food and drink consumer trends.
The founder of Verde Campo, Alessandro Rios Carvalho, and Álvaro Gazolla, the company’s former marketing and sales chief, retain the remaining 30% stake. Emmi’s confidence in Verde Campo’s potential for sustainable growth aligns with its commitment to bringing innovative brands and premium concepts to the market. This acquisition demonstrates Emmi’s strategic vision and dedication to expanding its portfolio with a focus on functional premium dairy products.
Ricarda Demarmels, Emmi’s CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, saying, “By partnering with Verde Campo’s founding team, we believe we can propel the brand to profitable growth and enhance our market position in Brazil.” Verde Campo, established in 1999, specializes in natural whey yogurts, shakes, cheese, and lactose-free products. The company’s emphasis on functionality and quality complements Emmi’s existing offerings and contributes to its growth strategy.
In its 2023 annual results, Emmi reported organic growth of 3.5%, with revenue reaching SFr4.24bn ($4.64bn). The Americas division accounted for 40.1% of total revenue, reflecting the company’s strong presence in the region. Looking ahead, Emmi anticipates 2024 organic growth of 1-2% despite challenging market conditions characterized by inflation and geopolitical tensions.
Emmi’s strategic acquisition of Verde Campo underscores its commitment to innovation and growth in the food and beverage industry. The collaboration with Verde Campo not only strengthens Emmi’s position in Brazil but also enhances its product portfolio with a focus on premium dairy products. As the company navigates the evolving market landscape, Emmi remains dedicated to delivering quality products and driving sustainable growth in key markets.
